BYO... Boat

That’s right; we’re reopening the boat launch at Lake Morena County Park. For several years, the boat launch was closed to the public due to low water levels. Now, thanks to recent rains, the reservoir is high enough to meet boats and the end of the launch for safe entry.

Lake Morena is a camping and fishing park located in the east county
community of Campo. Situated southwest of the Laguna Mountains, the
park features characteristics of desert, coastal and mountain
habitats. A reservoir shines blue in the middle of 3,250-acre park
that is surrounded by oak woods, shrubs and grasslands and an
abundance of wildlife.

Beginning April 1, boats as well as personal watercraft, fishing
float tubes, canoes and kayaks will be allowed in the reservoir.
Motorboats are also available to rent for daily fishing and
sightseeing activities.

The boat-launch fee is $8. View other rates and related information
on the park page.

All boats must undergo a quagga mussel inspection prior to launch.
Quagga mussels are an invasive species that aggressively filter
phytoplankton, upsetting the natural ecosystem of a body of water.

To pass inspection, vessels and equipment must be clean, drained and dry:

Clean of any visible mud, plants, fish, or animals on the
watercraft, equipment and trailers

Drained of all water,
including from the lower outboard unit, ballast, live-well, buckets,
etc., and drain plugs should be unplugged prior to arrival

Dry all areas and equipment including anchor lines, life vests,
waders, live wells, and trailers

“Reopening the boat launch is a big deal for us and for local
fishermen. People can now enjoy the lake from their own boats,” said
James Stowers, Supervising Park Ranger at Lake Morena. “We encourage
everyone to visit the lake this spring, and to participate in
activities like fishing lessons and animal encounters.”

You can also see what’s ‘biting’ in their weekly fishing report. As a
reminder, swimming is prohibited at Lake Morena because it is a
working reservoir.

Stay the day or spend the night! Lake Morena County Park has 86 tent
and RV sites, along with 10 wilderness cabins. Eight miles of trails
venture through the property including a new TRACK Trail for kids,
which turns ordinary hiking into a scavenger hunt with prizes. Other
amenities include a playground, artifacts exhibit with live animals,
and pavilion. Parking is $3 per vehicle for non-campers.

For more information, call the park at (619) 579-4101, or click HEREto make a reservation.